Robert McCormick Hymn Workshop, November 16, 2010

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On Tuesday, November 16, 2010, the Potomac Chapter of the AGO had a Hymn Workshop at St. Paul's Parish, K Street, Washington, DC, presented by Robert McCormick.

This is the facade of the Shoenstein organ.
This is the Festival Trumpet at the rear of the nave.

This is the console of the organ, which is located on the right side, opposite the facade.

Closer view of the console.

Couplers, including the tabs that modify the Utility shoe, so it may control several functions.

Pedalboard, expression shoes, toe studs and spoons.

Robert McCormick explained some of his techniques as we began the workshop.

For most of the workshop Mr. McCormick was at the organ console, so he could demonstrate what he described. He demonstrated many techniques that he uses to modify the basic organ accompaniment of hymns, adding variety and interest. For the last verses he changes the harmony; for the bulk of the verses he simply rearranges the existing harmony.

Following the workshop there was a reception in the atrium, which featured a birthday cake honoring Ken Lowenberg's and David McCahan's birthdays.

The Potomac Chapter wishes to thank Mr. McCormick and St. Paul's Parish for this wonderful event, which was enjoyed by members of the DC Chapter, as well as the Potomac Chapter.